Tell the truth about your broken-heart break-in

Hamilton Spectator

Dear Prudence:

Several years ago a girlfriend whom I loved very much cheated on me and ended up getting engaged to her new beau. I found solace in alcohol.

During one of my binges I broke into her house to take back an item of mine. While there, in my agitated state, I decided to take something else that had monetary value (which turned out to belong to her roommate). I told a lot of people how I had gotten retribution for all the scorned lovers.

Since then, I’ve received professional help for my drinking and am in a good place in my life. After moving cross-country I bumped into my by-now-single ex who unbeknownst to me moved years ago. We got back together and are serious about taking things to the next level.

I’m sick with guilt over my misdeed but worry if I tell her I will lose the chance at something great. But a lot of people know the story and someone might bring it up. What should I do?

A: Sure, you committed a felony in your attempt at retribution, but the person you really owe an apology to, as well as a cheque, is the roommate. But given that your breaking and entering was because of a broken heart, there’s a good chance your former — and current! — girlfriend will forgive the actions of a man out of his mind because of the loss of her.

So tell her before someone else does. If she leaves you over this, then it’s probably best if she’s gone for good. Oh, by the way, what happened to that fiancé of hers she left you for? You probably should find out if she cheated on him, too.